Land Development Project Manager Jobs in California

WHAT WE DO

Since 1986, PLSA has provided a wide range of land development consulting services in Southern California for landowners, real estate developers, and public agencies to bring their creative visions to life. Through problem solving and innovative design approaches, we transform underutilized land into new communities, workplaces, schools, revitalized infrastructure, commercial facilities and public amenities. Throughout the company’s history, PLSA has consistently upheld three core principles:

• Commitment to our clients
• Commitment to our employees
• Commitment to the quality of our work.

At PLSA, we partner with our clients in the complete cycle of the development of their project, from preliminary project planning and entitlement through precise civil engineering design and construction administration. As innovative design specialists, the professionals at PLSA are an integral part of the development team. We provide solutions to the unique challenges specific to the Southern California region, and ensure

We’re looking for an experienced Project Manager to join our San Diego and Cardiff team who will demonstrate the ability to operate with autonomy managing a project team and utilizing the resources of the firm to provide top quality service to clients on a variety of residential, commercial, & mixed-use projects. The Project Manager oversees the technical execution, financial performance, and delivery of land development projects. This role leads design efforts, manages client relationships, and guides internal teams to meet quality, budget, and schedule expectations. The Project Manager collaborates across disciplines and partners with firm leadership to drive operational success and client satisfaction. The Project Manager upholds PLSA’s mission and values by modeling professionalism, collaboration and technical excellence.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

Project management:

• Develop project scopes, budgets, and schedules in coordination with leadership and clients.
• Monitor financial performance, proactively managing budgets, staffing, and timelines.
• Prepare and process change orders and support proposal development.
• Oversee daily project execution, including coordination of production, operations, and QA/QC activities.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, agencies, and consultants.

Technical expertise:

• Lead technical design for site development projects including grading, drainage, utility and stormwater systems.
• Maintain a high level of engineering proficiency, applying engineering best practices to ensure compliance with local, state and federal codes.
• Make informed, independent decisions that drive project success while minimizing risks.
• Analyze and resolve complex technical challenges with innovative, cost-efficient solutions.
• Direct internal QA/QC reviews and provide technical guidance to ensure design accuracy.

Team leadership:

• Supervise and mentor engineers and designers; assign tasks and manage team workloads.
• Provide feedback through coaching, performance reviews, and development planning.

Promote collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning within the team.

• Contribute to staff development through knowledge-sharing, training, and performance management.

Administrative:

• Ensure adherence to company policies, procedures, and quality standards.
• Participate in business development activities, including client engagement and proposal strategy.
• Attend required internal meetings and contribute to firm-wide initiatives.

Maintain punctuality and consistent attendance.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Other:

• Punctuality and regular attendance.
• Additional duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering required.
• California PE license (Strongly preferred)
• Minimum 10 years of relevant land development experience, with at least 3–5 years managing projects.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Bluebeam.

Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams, manage complex projects, and deliver on-time, on-budget results.

• Strong communication, leadership, and client relationship skills.
• Familiarity with Southern California entitlement, permitting, and agency processes.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to operate computer keyboards, drafting tools, and other office equipment.
• Occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling objects up to 25 lbs.
• Visual acuity to read technical drawings, schematics, and computer screens.
• May require occasional travel to project sites or meetings.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and reach to retrieve or place materials.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as required when visiting a project site.
• Regularly required to speak and hear.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

PLSA is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, reproductive decision-making, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Compensation

PLSA is committed to pay equity, and as part of this commitment, have provided the annual base compensation range of $120,000.00 - $140,000.00 per year depending upon experience (performance bonuses are in addition to base compensation).

Please note: Unsolicited applications from third-party recruiters or agencies will not be considered. PLSA does not accept responsibility for any fees related to unsolicited resumes submitted by outside recruiters or agencies.